Petroleum and natural gas have transformed the 20th century and we have all participated in the associated Energy Revolution. This highly illustrated course will trace the scientific, technological and social histories of these two fossil fuels. Topics include geologic origins; recovery techniques; refining into a broad spectrum of liquid and gaseous fuels; combustion of those fuels in auto, diesel and turbojet engines; and the societal benefits of the associated Transportation Revolution. We will trace the origins and development of the U.S. highway system. Finally we will consider the possible future of oil and gas into the 21st century, in particular the question: Should we stop burning such hydrocarbon-based fossil fuels? This is the third and final course in this series.
Note: Attendance in the previous sections of this class is not required